Here's the drill for Zaino - - The first couple of coats of Z-2 or Z-5 need an accelerator which can be either Z-1 or ZFX. After that you can skip the accelerator for the next few coats. Mr. Z. says it's okay to go as high as ten coats without using an accelerator, but I usually use it every 3 to 5 coats.
Don't get the wrong idea about the accelerators, they only do two things; decrease the time needed for Z-2 or Z-5 to bond, and also werve to prep the surface for better bonding. They don't do any polishing, filling, etc.
Z-1 Polish-Lok works best if you top it with the Z-2 or Z-5 while it is still wet - don't wait for it to haze. In the past, before I had ZFX, I would put Z-1 on just one section (like half the hood) and then top it with Z-2 or Z-5 before going to the next section.
After you get the Zaino applied to the entire car you need to wait until it has fully bonded - much sooner bonding using ZFX. Do a finger test - wipe a strip with your finger, it should leave a clean shiny strip. If there is any smearing or smudging then you need to wait longer. You can use Zaino in direct sunlight, unlike most other products, and this will speed things up considerably.
It is important to apply a very thin and even coat of Zaino! I use a microfiber applicator, mist it lightly with Z-6 or distilled water, and then put on a small amount of Zaino. Hand wash the applicator with dish soap after using and air dry. After 3-4 uses on each side, throw it away and start with another pad.
One more thing - don't worry about making mistakes! There is a learning curve with Zaino, and you will make some mistakes while learning, but nothing that can't be fixed with a little polish.
